COVID-19 Sameday Report, #2: State of the “Tripledemic”

Over the last few weeks, experts have been talking about a “tripledemic” that could happen in the United States. With the holidays approaching, you may be asking yourself how can you keep you and your loved ones healthy in the midst of a potential “tripledemic.” Fortunately, Sameday Health is here to help. We are excited to introduce our new single swab COVID-19, flu, and RSV test. With just one sample, we are able to test for each of the viruses that are spreading during this time of year. Before you travel and gather together this holiday season, here is what you need to know about the state of the “tripledemic” and how our new test offering can help you stay safe.

The Tripledemic Explained

The term “Tripledemic” refers to the phenomenon of RSV, flu, and COVID-19 cases rising simultaneously (Yale Medicine). While all three viruses are common and mild for most people, this year experts warn of the potential for each one peaking at the same time. This threatens to overwhelm hospitals across the country.

The cause of this concern began in October, when flu and RSV cases began to rise. Since the beginning of the pandemic, we have not seen many cases of either due to COVID-19 prevention measures. While this has been a benefit over the last three years, now many children do not have a natural immunity to either virus because they have not been exposed to it (Yale Medicine). Most children typically contract both the flu and/or RSV by the time they are two years old so when they are exposed again they have an easier time fighting the infection (CDC). Now, however, there are millions of children that have never been exposed to either virus, and do not have immunity built up to fight them. With fewer COVID-19 prevention measures are in place, people are being exposed and becoming sick. Many children even becoming severely ill and needing to be hospitalized.

As medical professionals are working to handle increasing RSV and flu cases, they also must prepare for a rise in COVID-19 infections. There are two new variants spreading in the United States, so experts do not yet know if there will be another significant wave of COVID infections like we saw last Christmas. What we do know, is that it is imperative to try and prevent getting sick to avoid overwhelming hospitals this season. To do so, we need to understand each virus, its symptoms, and how to decrease transmission.

What is RSV?

Respiratory Syncytial Virus is a respiratory virus that causes cold-like symptoms (CDC). Symptoms of RSV typically begin 4 to 6 days after infection, and do not usually appear all at once. Symptoms can include runny nose, decrease in appetite, coughing, sneezing, fever, and wheezing, depending on age (CDC). People of all ages can get RSV, but it can be serious for infants, young children, and elderly adults, as it can develop into other, more severe illness (CDC). This virus can spread two ways. The first is through air droplets that spread between people when talking, coughing, or sneezing, and the other is through contaminated surfaces (CDC).

What is the flu?

The flu is a viral respiratory illness (Harvard). Symptoms of the flu are a sudden onset of fever, cough, sore throat, fatigue, congestion, and muscle and joint pain. Anyone can be affected by the flu, but the severity can vary from person to person, depending on certain risk factors, immunity strength, and age. Severe illness and death mainly occur amongst people 65 years and older with pre-existing health issues (WHO). The flu is primarily spread through droplets from the mouth and nose by talking, coughing, or sneezing (CDC).

What is COVID-19?

COVID-19 is a viral infection that causes flu-like symptoms. Symptoms can include fever or chills, cough, shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, fatigue, muscle or body aches, headaches, loss of taste or smell, sore throat, congestion, runny nose, nausea, vomiting, and/or diarrhea (CDC). The COVID-19 virus spreads between people through air droplets that are created when someone talks, coughs, or sneezes and people of all ages can contract the virus (CDC).

Gather and Travel Safely

There are a number of things you can do during the holidays to prevent getting sick. Vaccines are available for COVID-19 and the flu, both of which help can protect you and minimize the severity of symptoms if you do contract a virus. When you go out, wear a mask, and avoid high-risk areas or events with large crowds. If you are with people, practice good hygiene like washing your hands, disinfecting surfaces, and not sharing eating or drinking utensils with others. Lastly, stay home if you feel unwell and get tested. The sooner you are tested, the sooner you can seek the correct treatment.

Sameday is here to help

At Sameday Health, testing for COVID, RSV, and the flu has never been faster, more convenient, or more affordable. Our new single swab, flu, COVID, and RSV test is now available at select Los Angeles clinics. For $250, or $25 with insurance, you and your loved ones can get tested for all three viruses in one swab, helping you save time and money this season. Appointments last about 10 minutes and results are available in 24 hours.

To book an appointment, please use our app or visit SamedayHealth.com. Once you have your results, we offer primary care services in-person or virtually to help answer your questions and get you treatment.